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8/27/2021 • Cruises, Tips •
The cost of a Disney Cruise includes so many benefits that it truly makes it a great value for your money. One of the most important inclusions is the outstanding Disney service that my family has come to enjoy whether traveling with children or on one of their adult-only cruises. What is included in the cost of your cruise? All meals are included when dining in 1 of the 3 main restaurants, Cabanas buffet, the pool deck quick service locations, and the restaurants on Castaway Cay. In addition, there are locations throughout each ship that offer snacks during the day. Soft drinks and coffee are included with your meals and obtained at the self-service stations on the pool deck and Cabanas. Many of the items on the room service menu are included and available 24 hours/day in case you have a craving in the middle of the night. There are […]
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8/24/2021 • Cruises, Tips •
As a long-time cruiser with Disney Cruise Line, I have always enjoyed the stop at Disney’s Castaway Cay. On my recent, first trip on Royal Caribbean, this is where they had to reach the bar that Disney has set so high in the category of private islands. I am happy to report that Perfect Day Coco Cay was everything and more than what I expected. There is so much to do on this island and not enough time so with that in mind, here are my top 5 “must-do” activities: 1. Zip Lining – By far, this was my favorite activity and the best way to get some spectacular views of the island. There were 3 segments, all very mild and low-key. Each segment lasted about 20 seconds and whisked you over the top of several different areas of Coco Cay. Even those who are not huge thrill-seekers will enjoy […]
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8/20/2021 • Cruises, Tips •
WE DID IT!!! We accomplished a long-term “goal” of successfully traveling as a family on the Disney Cruise Line. There have been many factors over the 20 + years since my husband and I went on our first Disney cruise that has stood in the way of successfully accomplishing this goal. Fear was the biggest hurdle. As I have previously shared, my oldest son is living with Fragile X Syndrome. Would he tolerate the motion of the boat? Would he be able to tell us if he was feeling unwell or would he only display undesirable behaviors? Would he want to participate in the various activities? Would he want to get off at the various port of call? The following tips are what we did to prepare by hoping to lessen any potential behaviors that might come along with his constant desire to know, "what's next." 5. Research your ship […]
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8/17/2021 • Cruises, Tips •
Packing for a vacation is an important part of the planning process, but rarely do people think about what they should NOT bring onboard a Disney cruise. This is a broad overview of some of the items you should leave at home in order to provide a safe environment for all guests. If you have any questions about specific items, your Me and The Mouse Travel Specialist will be happy to assist. What NOT To Bring On Your Disney Cruise Absolutely no weapons or anything that may resemble a weapon. Includes explosives, ammunition, flares, knives or scissors exceeding 4”, or anything highly flammable. If you made a stop at Hollywood Studios prior to your cruise and bought a lightsaber, plan on shipping it home since it won’t be allowed on the ship. Scuba diving equipment, however, snorkeling equipment (mask, fins) are allowed. Air mattresses The only alcohol permitted to be […]
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8/10/2021 • Cruises, Reviews •
When you are sailing onboard your Disney Cruise, take time to pamper yourself and make a reservation at the SENSES Spa. The full-service spa includes massages, manicures, pedicures, and salon services. When cruising, I recommend treating yourself to the Rainforest Deluxe Cruise pass. This fantastic spa package is available on all sailings and includes unlimited access to the scented showers, aroma steam, sauna rooms, and private jacuzzis. Depending on your Disney Cruise ship, you can also enjoy the warm loungers that overlook the ocean (Disney Dream and Fantasy cruise ships) or relax and unwind with the tranquil sounds of water in an exclusive relaxation room (Disney Magic and Wonder cruise ships). This package also includes scented body scrubs of your choice to use to exfoliate while enjoying the Rainforest showers and saunas. No appointments are necessary for you to use your Rainforest Spa package. Simply check-in with your stateroom key at the […]
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7/27/2021 • Cruises, Tips •
How many times have you had an itch to get on vacation, but the thought of making a reservation at the last minute would cost an arm and a leg? Disney Cruise Line may have a solution for last-minute planners. Many times, Disney Cruise Line releases promotional rates called IGT (Inside Guaranteed), OGT (Oceanview Guaranteed), and VGT (Verandah Guaranteed). Granted, you may receive a lower fare if you book as soon as Disney releases their new itineraries, but many people have a hard time planning that far in advance. If you happen to discover you have extra vacation days at work or you just need a little time away, these fares may be right up your alley. They are usually quite a discount from the regular fares that you would book last minute. Disney generally releases these fares after the pay in full date, which for most sailings and stateroom […]
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5/28/2021 • Cruises, Reviews •
Those traveling on a Disney Cruise in the Bahamas or Caribbean can experience an exciting day on the white, sandy beaches of Disney’s Castaway Cay. Whether you are an adult, a couple, or a family, there is much for everyone to enjoy. But what if you could partake in a unique experience that not only creates fun memories but also helps to preserve native wildlife? Sounds exciting, right?! Then why not try the Stingray Adventure at Castaway Cay? You and your family can schedule this amazing excursion once your excursion date has opened and you have paid your cruise fare in full. At $52 per adult (10 and up) and $41 for kids (5 to 9), you will have an hour of exclusive time with multiple stingrays in ‘Stingray Lagoon’. It is important that your children are at least 5 years old and are comfortable swimming with life jackets and […]
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5/21/2021 • Cruises, Tips •
If you are looking to receive a pampering level of service on your next Disney Cruise, sailing concierge-level may be the perfect fit for you and your family. For some, the additional cost to sail concierge is worth the extra expense. The benefits begin while you are still at home. Shore-side services will reach out to you before the 120 days prior to your sail date to secure adult dining reservations at Palo or Remy and spa reservations. This booking window is prior to Gold, Silver Castaway Cay members and first-time guests. If you desire a cabana at Castaway Cay, they will also help you reserve the very coveted cabana. They are also available to book shore excursions and offer suggestions. On your embarkation day, you may wait to board in a separate lounge at the port, and you are given priority boarding ahead of the non-concierge guests. Once on […]
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5/18/2021 • Cruises •
If you love Christmas and you love Disney, sailing away on a Very Merrytime Cruise with Disney Cruise Line should be added to your Christmas list. I was fortunate to experience my first Very Merrytime Cruise on the Disney Dream with my Me and The Mouse team in early November this year. I love the holidays and was so excited to get a jump start on Christmas music, decorations, and holiday traditions. Disney’s expertise in creating a “Magical Christmas” sailing is something I was thrilled to have the opportunity to experience. I especially enjoyed the magic of snow in the tropics. Holiday activities and offerings are subject to change by ship and itinerary, but I am excited to share a sampling below: Deck the Deck Tropical Holiday Party-Where your Disney pals know how to get the holiday party started with dancing and games such as candy cane limbo. Mickey’s Tree […]
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5/14/2021 • Cruises, Tips •
Doing laundry on a Disney Cruise is a great way to help if you are a light packer and/or you do not want to return home with dirty clothes. Disney makes it easy and convenient. Each of the Disney Cruise Line ships have 24-hour self-service laundry rooms. Cost $3.00 Washer $3.00 Dryer $1.00 Laundry Detergent *Please note that prices are subject to change. Paying is easy and you don’t need to lug quarters around. You simply use your Key to The World Card to purchase credits that can be used for each wash/dry cycle. The amount will be charged to your stateroom account. You will also will be given the option to share your credits with others in your stateroom at the time of purchase. I prefer to pack a few detergent pods before leaving home. Since clothes irons and steamers are not permitted in any stateroom, the laundry rooms […]
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